A plush catnip toy combines the comforting feel of a stuffed animal with the enticing scent of catnip to encourage play, exercise, and relaxation.
But as I shopped for my own cats, I discovered that most plush catnip toys are mass-produced overseas with cheap fabric and weak catnip. These toys tear, fall apart, and may even contain unsafe parts.
As a cat mom and the founder of Americat Company, I wanted better for my cats and for yours. That's why I designed a safer, more durable option. Read on to learn what to avoid in a plush catnip toy and why you can trust the safety and durability of Americat Company’s catnip toys.
Why Plush Catnip Toys Appeal to Cats
A plush catnip toy combines two things that cats love for multi-sensory play:
- Soft, huggable fabric that is satisfying to grab, bite, and kick
- Scent of catnip that triggers curiosity, playfulness, and excitement
Unlike hard plastic toys, plush toys are gentle on paws and teeth. They also provide a more natural hunting experience, since soft toys are closer to the feel of real prey.
Common Problems with Plush Catnip Toys
If you aren't sure about a toy’s materials, manufacturing, or safety standards, would you feel comfortable letting your cats play with it? Too many plush catnip products have these issues:
1. Cheap, unsafe materials
Many inexpensive toys are mass-produced overseas with unknown fabrics, decorations, and fillers. Cats bite and lick their toys, so questionable materials can pose real health risks.
2. Weak stitching and flimsy construction
Cats play hard! A poorly made toy can rip open, exposing stuffing or small parts that may be swallowed.
3. Stale or low-quality catnip
Some plush catnip toys use old or weak catnip that cats ignore. Fresh, potent catnip is key. If your cat shows no interest, the catnip inside may be low quality.
The Solution: Americat Company Plush Catnip Toy
Our customers asked us to create a plush catnip toy. They were frustrated with other brands' toys that their cats destroyed or ignored altogether. We listened!
At Americat Company, we believe play is one of the best ways to reduce stress, prevent boredom, and promote health and happiness in indoor cats. We also believe our cats deserve safe, durable toys. That's why we created plush catnip toys we feel good giving to our own beloved cats.
What Makes Our Toys Different
- 100% Made in the USA from U.S. materials for unmatched safety and quality.
- Safe, carefully sourced American components from fabric and thread to stuffing.
- Durable 100% American cotton denim twill fabric that stands up to teeth and claws.
- Stuffed with U.S.-grown catnip, cotton, and crinkly hulls for an irresistible mix of scent, texture, and sound for multi-sensory play.
- Handmade in Pittsburgh, PA.
Physical Benefits of a Plush Catnip Toy
- Natural hunting simulation: In the wild, cats hunt 10-20 times per day. Plush catnip toys allow indoor cats to "hunt" following the sequence of staring, stalking, pouncing, and killing.
- Exercise: Batting, wrestling, rolling, and bunny kicking promote movement, build muscle, and help maintain a healthy weight.
- Improve agility and coordination: Play sharpens reflexes and balance.
- Healthy outlet: A safe way to release pent-up energy, reducing destructive behaviors.
Mental Benefits of a Plush Catnip Toy
- Stress relief: Play helps reduce anxiety and depression and calms restless cats.
- Mental stimulation: Toys keep cats engaged and prevent boredom.
- Bonding: Interactive play builds trust and deepens your relationship with your cats.
- Comfort: Many cats cuddle with or fall asleep on their plush toy after play.
How to Introduce a Plush Catnip Toy
- Offer the toy during a naturally active time, such as after a nap or before meals.
- Lightly squeeze or shake the toy to release more catnip scent.
- Rotate toys regularly to keep novelty high.
- Inspect toys for wear and replace if damaged.
My Cats and These Toys
My cats Lewie and Nelly were the original testers of our plush catnip toys.
Lewie loves to grab the toy, flip onto his side, and kick with joy. Sometimes I find him using it as a pillow while he sleeps, which warms my heart.
Nelly has endless kitten energy. She loves when I throw the toy across the room so she can chase it.
Our Customers' Cats
One of the things I love most about running Americat Company is seeing photos of cats happily using our products. It’s also incredibly touching to hear from cat parents who say they’ve finally found products they can trust.
Knowing that your cats are playing safely with these plush catnip toys, while loving every minute, makes all the difference!
Conclusion
Not all plush catnip toy options are created equal. Many are cheaply made, unsafe, and unappealing to cats. That’s why we designed Americat Company Plush Catnip Toys as a safe, durable, USA-made solution.
Give your cats the joy of play, exercise, and comfort with toys you can trust.
Shop Plush Catnip Toys
About Us: Americat Company is where love for cats meets American craftsmanship. Founded in 2016, we are a cat-loving, woman-owned, small business. We make cat products in the USA from safe, durable, U.S. materials. Shop all our made in the USA cat products here.
